Staff, residents, members and pre-school children all came together for a special tea and the youngsters also took part in their own mini balloon release.

Sara Colenutt, communications and events coordinator at the Romford YMCA, said: “The celebrations went really well and we are looking forward to seeing which balloon travels the furthest.”

The event was not only held to mark the anniversary; it was staged to coincide with the global YMCA’s World Challenge 2014.

Members of the public Irene Jackson, Doris Williams, Jean Wardell and a woman who did not wish to be named celebrating

Like other YMCAs worldwide, the Romford branch encouraged residents to sign a petition in support of young people.

Sara said: “Staff and residents worked really hard and gathered well over 300 signatures, which will form part of the declaration that will be presented to leaders of the community, country and the United Nations.

“It is an effort by the world YMCA movement to amplify the voices of young people.

“The event was all in all a big success which we hope can make a difference to our young people.”

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